Jesus predicted that Jerusalem’s destruction in 70 A.D. would cause men to be overwhelmed with fear (Luke 21:26). We also live in fearful times.
What does the Bible have to say about fear and the Christian?
The battle with fear is nothing new.
- Adam hid from God because of his sin (Genesis 3:9-10).
- Israel feared the Canaanites (Numbers 13-14). This prevented them from taking possession of the Promised Land.
- Saul failed to wipe out the Amalekites because he feared the people (1 Samuel 15:24).
- Elijah feared the wrath of Jezebel (1 Kings 19:1-3).
- Following the death of Jesus, the apostles hid in fear of the Jews (John 20:19).
- Fear contributed to Peter denying the Lord three times (Luke 22:54-62).
- Paul worked in “fear and trembling” while in Corinth (1 Corinthians 2:3).
Fear can bring about many negative consequences.
- It can negatively impact our faith (2 Corinthians 5:7; Matthew 14:28-31).
- It can negatively impact our obedience (1 Samuel 15:24).
- It can negatively impact others (Hebrews 10:23-25).
- It can negatively impact God’s work (Matthew 28:18-20).
We can overcome fear.
- We must trust God (2 Corinthians 4:7-10). We need to be “anxious for nothing” and take our concerns to the Lord in prayer (Philippians 4:6-7). We need to trust that God will always work out things for the best.
- We must have courage (Acts 18:9-11). The presence of Jesus in our lives should give us the courage we need to overcome our fears.
- We must lean on our spiritual family (Galatians 5:13; 6:1-2; Ephesians 4:32; 5:19; 1 Thessalonians 4:18; 5:11). We need to be open with our brethren about our fears and help us overcome them.
- We must love God (2 Timothy 1:7; 1 John 4:18). When the love of God is full in our hearts, we will always be motivated to obey Him no matter what carnal obstacles come our way.
Conclusion:
God demands that we fear Him (Matthew 10:28). Do you fear God?